A person with a fractured jaw may suffer serious interference with breathing. The victim is likely to have great difficulty in talking, chewing, or swallowing. Any movement of the jaw causes pain. The teeth maybe out of line, and there may be bleeding from the gums. Considerable swelling may develop.

TREATMENT. One of the most important phases of emergency care is to clear the upper respiratory

Figure 10-54.-Four-tailed bandage for a fractured jaw.

passage of any obstruction. When the fractured jaw interferes with breathing, pull his lower jaw and tongue FORWARD and keep them in that position. Apply a four-tailed bandage, as shown in figure 10-54. Be sure the bandage pulls the lower jaw FORWARD. Never apply a bandage that forces the jaw backward, since this could seriously interfere with breathing. The bandage must be firm to support the jaw properly, but it must not press against the victim's throat. Ensure the victim has scissors or a knife to cut the bandage in case of vomiting.

Treat the victim for shock and obtain medical care as soon as possible.